KUALA LUMPUR: Employers must leverage existing anti-bullying policies and implement them effectively to address any instances of workplace cyberbullying, says the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF).
Its president, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, said cyberbullying has expanded in form, with conventional workplace bullying now extending to virtual bullying.
Thus, he said, employers play a significant role in creating and maintaining a safe work environment for their employees and their families.
"Managers and supervisors are urged to recognise signs of cyberbullying and handle suspected perpetrators with acute sensitivity.
"In cases where cyberbullying overlaps with harassment or sexual harassment, companies must adhere to established company policies and legal standards to manage the situation.
"This includes initiating thorough investigations, either internally or through external agencies, and taking appropriate action based on the findings.
"Disciplinary measures could range from counselling and corrective actions to termination, depending on the severity of the behaviour,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (July 30).
Syed Hussain also said proactive approaches are essential in combating workplace cyberbullying, and employers are encouraged to integrate these guidelines into their operational frameworks to safeguard their workforce effectively.
He said that without resolution, the consequences can be severe, as victims of workplace cyberbullying may experience anxiety, depression, and a decrease in job satisfaction, which can lead to higher absenteeism and turnover rates.
"The overall morale of the workplace can be affected, leading to a toxic work environment that hinders collaboration and productivity. This will negatively impact the company’s productivity and its reputation. Thus, retaining and attracting talent becomes harder,” he said.
MEF also lauds the current initiatives of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim through various government agencies in ensuring that cyberbullying is tackled comprehensively.
The federation also hopes that the government will consult stakeholders to ensure that the new policies are effective in combating this menace. – Bernama
